This is Samantha Whelan's avatar and link to their profile

Samantha Whelan

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Samantha Whelan and I am an LPC currently licensed in Oklahoma, Alabama, and New Hampshire with 12 years of professional experience. I decided to take a sabbatical to raise my two children while continuing to keep up with professional development thru continuing education. During these years the ups and downs of everyday life with family, kids, and friends gave me more insight into personal life struggles than I could have acquired by only reading a textbook or sitting in my office. I consider it one of the greatest honors of my life to be able to help people who may be experiencing a personal, family, or relational challenge by providing support, practical feedback, skills-sets and tools that I have acquired in my many years of conducting group and individual psychotherapy sessions. The majority of my professional counseling career was spent prior to the birth of my children. This period of intense focus on my development as a counselor provided me with the chance to develop the capacity to exhibit sympathy and accurate empathy when working with some of society's most challenging circumstances. During this critical time of professional growth, I had the distinct honor to work with people struggling with the grip of addiction and mental health challenges. Because of the bio-psycho-social nature of the disease of addiction, I was challenged to become competent in addressing a myriad of my clients social, emotional, spiritual, physical, legal, familial, and financial issues caused by the trauma of unhealthy habits and poor decision making. It was during these early years that I developed my own personal style of counseling and psychotherapy. This style of therapy is deeply rooted in the discipline of cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral theory, motivational interviewing, and client centered therapy . These styles allow both you and I to work together during our therapy sessions. I would also like to mention that I myself have been where you are. I have sought out counseling as well and as a counselor myself I had very high standards. I feel like this experience also gave me such great insight into what it felt like to be "on the other side of the desk" and I truly knew how it felt to be heard and validated and I hope that I can make my clients feel the same way. It is my belief that most individuals fall somewhere along a continuum of change. Many times a person’s lack of awareness of where they might be placed on this continuum is a starting point for our counseling sessions. Change doesn't happen overnight. But, my hope for you is that we can find out what you would like to improve and find out what types of behavior change need to happen in order for you to accomplish your personal growth goals in a safe, confidential setting. Always remember your agenda is my agenda. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Dr. Clarence Merckerson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Clarence Merckerson

Offering therapy in AL
License: PhD,LPC,CRC
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and rational-emotive counseling. We will work together to identify what your goals are for therapy, and your strengths and resources for achieving them. Together we can identify the impacts of stressors in your life, address the symptoms, and plan to avoid or cope with upcoming potentially stressful events. We will identify your needs and capabilities, affirm your resilience and strengths, and promote your self-expression and personal growth. I try to build relationships with my clients which foster collaboration, trust, and transparency. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

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William Thornett

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC,LMHC,MHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
14 years of experience

I am a professional licensed counselor in Alabama , Florida, and Hawaii with over 16 years experience. I have experience working with many clients on wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addictions , career challenges and personal development. I have also worked with people who have experienced physical trauma and emotional abuse. My counseling style is to work together as a team with my clients and figure out what works best for them . I believe in treating all individuals from different walks of life with respect and compassion. My basic approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, reality therapy, brief solution focused therapy, career/vocational counseling and mindfulness techniques. I will personalize our sessions and therapeutic treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals. It takes courage and strength to seek counseling for a happy and more fulfilling life , if you are ready I am here to help , guide , support and empower you . I look forward to working with you !

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This is Dr. Carolyn Neiswender's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carolyn Neiswender

Offering therapy in AL
License: DSW,LICSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello! I applaud your decision to view my page. This first step may have been difficult for you, and it signals that you want resolution of an issue. Together we will work to alleviate pain/suffering so that you can have a full, rich, meaningful life. I have a clinical doctoral degree (DSW) from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville as a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama and an undergraduate degree in social work, sociology (minor-Psychology) earned at Huntingdon College. I love helping people! As a clinical social worker, I meet people during times of duress—often the worst day of their life. I have a non-judgmental attitude regarding the issues that one has when seeking my help. As we work toward healing, I can promise that I will NOT dismiss the pain you are experiencing or make light of your situation. It is imperative that I not only HEAR you but UNDERSTAND you and this requires open communication and trust (both of us). I have more than 30 years’ experience working with individuals and families with a variety of health/mental health concerns and life/career changes. I have mentored colleagues and provided supervision for them as well. With multiple years of experience in health care (hospitals, nursing homes, home health, hospice) I have also developed a passion for working with older adults and their families. Caregivers experience types of stress and often need concrete assistance. However, I treat adults of all ages especially those with anxiety, depression, life changes, pre-retirement concerns, etc. Additionally, I enjoy assisting college students master concerns about class assignments, issues with professors, and so forth. My approach is client centered and I use a range of treatment options: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness, Problem Solving Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Rogerian, Gestalt and others. The best client for me is one who is MOTIVATED to make changes and do the work necessary to make those changes. That means keeping appointments and completing assignments when given. I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals! The next step is committing to therapy. Wishing you all the best life has to offer.

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This is Marjorie Ann Robinson's avatar and link to their profile

Marjorie Ann Robinson

Offering therapy in AL
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I received my Masters’ of Social Work in 2010 from The University of Alabama and began my career working with the local homeless population my first year after graduate school. I later moved into clinical practice, working for a local organization, working with adult and adolescent clients experiencing mental health and substance abuse disorders. I have utilized evidence based practices with the following therapeutic modalities: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Spiritual Integration Counseling, Strength-Based Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I have a passion for fostering holistic well-being and I am dedicated to guiding individuals through their journey to mental and emotional harmony. I believe in addressing the whole person, recognizing personal strengths and the interconnected aspects that shape individual experiences. I seek to utilize the 8 pillars of holistic health (physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, environmental, occupational, and intellectual) by considering all the diverse factors that influence mental health. Live appointment times are typically 45 minute sessions, but can be 30 minutes. Please do your best to be on time for sessions. If you are 15 minutes late, you will need to reschedule. If you need to cancel and reschedule please do so at least 24 hours in advance. If there is a scheduling issue, please let me know as soon as possible, I will do what I can to accommodate. When preparing for a session, please do not be driving a vehicle or be involved in potentially dangerous or any other distracting activities (watching tv, etc). If you must be driving, please let me know ahead of time and we will reschedule. Please be appropriately dressed and mannered during sessions. Also, please be aware, that this is not for emergency services. If you feel like harming yourself, or anyone else, please call a family member, friend, 911, 988, or go to your nearest Emergency room.

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This is Dr. Fillis Walton's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Fillis Walton

Offering therapy in AL
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Jeffrey Barrett's avatar and link to their profile

Jeffrey Barrett

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am credentialed in the state of Alabama with 20 years of professional work experience as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I firmly believe that people have the capacity to substantially improve their situations through developing insight and finding practical solutions to create the change for which they aspire. My experience includes helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, and coping with grief and loss. I also have worked with people who are experiencing life changes including cancer and other serious medical conditions. I am a musician and have unique insight into using our creative capacity in the arts to make a better life for ourselves and those around us. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Jason Gibson's avatar and link to their profile

Jason Gibson

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Marci Blanda's avatar and link to their profile

Marci Blanda

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Alabama. I have 6+ years of experience providing mental and behavioral health counseling to adolescents, adults and seniors. I work with a variety of issues including: anxiety, stress management, mental illness, substance use, compassion fatigue, depression, relationships, health and wellness, and trauma. I value the holistic wellness approach. I believe “well” is connected to the whole person. Mind, Body, and Spirit. I work to meet you where you are and explore your goals you would like to achieve. It takes courage to start a therapeutic journey, I am glad you’re here! I will be here to empower you along the way.

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This is Connie Oden's avatar and link to their profile

Connie Oden

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflict, trauma and abuse. Treatment helps you find motivation and improves self esteem. Healing begins with a gentle path away from worry and depressive symptoms. Taking the first step in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Holly Pond

Finding the best therapist close by in Holly Pond can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Holly Pond. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Holly Pond, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Holly Pond or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Holly Pond area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Holly Pond, elsewhere in Cullman, or in the greater state of Alabama.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Holly Pond area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Holly Pond therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Holly Pond due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Holly Pond may not take health insurance, some in the state of Alabama may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Alabama you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Holly Pond, Alabama working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Holly Pond above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Holly Pond helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Holly Pond therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Holly Pond therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Holly Pond therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in AL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 35055 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Holly Pond counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Holly Pond licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Holly Pond, Alabama can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Holly Pond has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Holly Pond.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Holly Pond:

35055, 35083

Popular cities near Holly Pond, AL

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